The Windies faced a humiliating defeat in the first Test of the ongoing two-match series against India in Rajkot, losing the match by an innings and 272 runs inside the first three days. On a flat track that offered plenty of runs for the batsmen, the Caribbean team was bundled out for 181 and 196 in the first and second innings respectively thanks to India’s trio of spinners. Their batsmen did not apply themselves and were far from ready to face-off against India in a Test at home.

However, apart from their batting, Windies’ bowling attack was practically ineffective – the pacers made no impact, and the spinners weren’t able to halt India’s run-scoring rate which allowed the hosts to pile up 649 within 5 sessions in the first innings. However, the visitors will be pleased to have one of their more important fast bowlers back in the side for the second Test.

A couple of days before the commencement of the Rajkot Test at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, the Windies suffered a blow in form of Kemar Roach, who was forced to fly back home after the demise of his grandmother.

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Windies coach Stuart Law had initially said that Roach will join the team mid-way during the Test in Rajkot. However, Kemar Roach wasn’t able to return to India, raising speculations on whether he will eventually be available for the second Test. The coach nevertheless confirmed on Monday that Roach arrived in Hyderabad late on Sunday and will to be available for the second Test.

As per the reports in Sportstar, Stuart said, “Roach is currently is resting up in Hyderabad. He reached India yesterday and has straightaway gone to Hyderabad rather than coming here for a day and then flying out with the team. To have someone of his (Roach’s) quality to come up with (Jason) Holder and (Shannon) Gabriel gives our attack a bit more strength (for the second Test).”

The Windies will go on to play 5 ODIs and 3 T20Is against India after the completion of the Hyderabad Test.